Prof. Sabeha Mufti assumes charge as the Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kashmir. Currently serving as the Head of the Media Education Research Centre (MERC), Prof. Mufti brings with her rich academic experience, distinguished scholarship, and an extensive contribution to media studies and social science research.
Prof. Mufti holds a Ph.D. in Mass Communication & Journalism from the AJK Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia, and an M.Phil from University of Kashmir. Her academic work has largely focused on media research and media sociology, with significant contributions in areas such as media and representation of women, media and development in society, media audiences, and contemporary communication studies.
A distinguished scholar and academic, Prof. Mufti has published several research papers in reputed journals and has actively participated in numerous national and international conferences and seminars. Over the years, she has also guided and supervised a good number of M.Phil and Ph.D scholars, contributing immensely to research and academic mentorship in the field of media and social sciences.
The University fraternity extends heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Sabeha Mufti on assuming this important academic responsibility and wishes her continued success in strengthening teaching, research, and academic excellence in the Faculty of Social Sciences.
source: http://www.kashmirindepth.in / KINS Communication / Home> Breaking News> Kashmir / by Zainab Hamdani / May 23rd, 2026
In its series Parvaz, Awaz-the Voice brings you stories of remarkable Muslim woman academicians, whose work across India’s universities, research institutions, and centres of learning, has redefined scholarship.
Their journeys span literature, history, science, social reform, diplomacy, and educational leadership, yet they are united by a shared belief that knowledge must serve society. Through classrooms, research labs, policy platforms, and grassroots engagement, these women have not only broken barriers but have created pathways for future generations.
Here is an introduction to ten selected Muslim Women Academicians of India:
Arjumand Ara :
Arjumand Ara stands as a distinguished scholar of language, literature, and feminist thought. A professor at University of Delhi, she has translated more than twenty major literary works and earned the Sahitya Akademi Translation Award in 2021.
Through her scholarship, she has built enduring bridges between Urdu and Hindi while preserving literary heritage and amplifying women’s voices.
Syed Tanveer Nasrin :
Syed Tanveer Nasrin has brought together scholarship, diplomacy, and social activism with rare distinction. Serving at University of Burdwan, she strengthened India’s cultural ties with the Maldives during her tenure in Malé while emerging as a respected voice on women’s rights, minority identity, and interfaith harmony.
Educated at Presidency College, Jadavpur University and JNU, she specializes in Gender Studies.
Abeda Inamdar :
Abeda Inamdar chose service over security when she left a prestigious government career to dedicate herself to education.
Through the Maharashtra Cosmopolitan Education Society and the celebrated Azam Campus, she has transformed educational opportunities for thousands of girls and marginalized students, creating institutions that continue to uplift generations.
Benazir Tamboli :
Benazir Tamboli turned personal adversity into a lifelong mission of empowerment and justice.
Through her work with the Muslim Satyashodhak Mandal and educational institutions, she has emerged as a fearless advocate for Muslim women, constitutional rights, and progressive social reform.
Naima Khatoon :
Naima Khatoon created history in 2024 by becoming the first woman Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University.
A renowned psychologist, author, and academic leader, she is steering institutional reforms, research excellence, and women’s empowerment while modernizing one of India’s most iconic universities.
Najma Akhtar :
Najma Akhtar broke another glass ceiling as the first woman Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia. A recipient of the Padma Shri, she introduced transformative reforms, expanded professional education, and helped shape Jamia’s emergence as a globally respected academic institution.
She is also the first woman to hold the post in JMI. In 2022, she was awarded with Padma Shri by the Government of India.
Nilofer Khan :
Nilofer Khan became the first woman to lead the University of Kashmir, marking a historic moment for higher education in the region. With nearly four decades of academic service and over a hundred research publications, she continues to inspire women to aspire to leadership in academia.
Shahida Murtaza :
Shahida Murtaza has spent over three decades documenting the realities of marginalized women across southern India. A former Dean at Maulana Azad National Urdu University, she has turned ethnographic research into a powerful mission for gender justice, awareness, and grassroots empowerment.
Sofia Banu :
Sofia Banu represents the growing force of women in scientific innovation. As an Associate Professor at Gauhati University, her groundbreaking work in biotechnology, biodiversity, and agricultural sustainability is creating real-world impact while inspiring young scientists across Northeast India.
Syed Mubin Zehra :
Syed Mubin Zehra has established herself as a leading scholar, author, and public intellectual. Serving at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College of the University of Delhi she continues to shape national conversations on gender equality, education, and social harmony through scholarship, advocacy, and global academic engagement.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Parvaz> The Changemakers / posted by Aasha Khosa / May 09th, 2026
A quiet but significant academic shift is unfolding across India, as Muslim students register notable successes in some of the country’s most competitive examinations. From civil services and national-level entrance tests to state and central board results, the 2025-26 academic year has emerged as a milestone, reflecting both individual perseverance and gradual systemic improvements in access to education.
One of the clearest indicators of this progress is visible in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination 2025 results. A total of 53 Muslim candidates successfully cleared the exam, the highest number in nearly a decade. Out of 958 successful candidates, this represents approximately 5.5%, marking a steady increase compared to previous years. While still below the community’s population share of 14-15%, the rise signals a growing presence in India’s administrative framework.
Several candidates secured top ranks, underscoring the depth of talent emerging from the community. A.R. Rajah Mohaideen secured Rank 7, placing him among the top 10 achievers, while Ifra Shams Ansari (Rank 24), Nabiya Parvez (Rank 29), and Hassan Khan (Rank 95) featured within the top 100. These achievements highlight a shift in a field historically marked by underrepresentation, offering new role models for aspiring civil servants.
Parallel success stories have emerged in engineering entrance examinations. Majid Mujahid Hussain from Madhya Pradesh secured an exceptional All India Rank 3 in JEE Advanced 2025, one of the most challenging engineering entrance exams globally. His accomplishment stands out not only for its academic merit but also for challenging the perception that top ranks are reserved for students from elite urban coaching ecosystems. Majid’s journey, built on disciplined self-study and determination, reflects a broader democratisation of opportunity in competitive education.
In the medical field, Muslim students have also demonstrated competitive strength. Umaid Khan from Maharashtra secured All India Rank 21 in NEET-UG 2025, contributing to the state’s strong overall performance. While comprehensive nationwide data on religious representation in NEET remains limited, individual achievements such as these point to increasing participation in high-stakes medical admissions.
At the school level, Muslim students have consistently excelled in both central and state board examinations. The CBSE Class 10 and 12 results for 2025 recorded an overall pass percentage of 88.39%, within which minority students have shown increasing competitiveness. Across states such as Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Telangana, and West Bengal, Muslim students have frequently appeared among district and state toppers, particularly in science and commerce streams.
Regional trends further underline the importance of educational ecosystems. Southern states like Kerala and Telangana, known for their robust literacy rates and institutional support, continue to produce high-performing Muslim students. In several districts, pass percentages among Muslim students have reportedly exceeded 85-90%, particularly where access to coaching and academic resources is more developed.
Among the standout individual stories this year is that of 15-year-old Syed Zaid Sadiq from Nashik, who topped JEE Main 2026 with an impressive percentile of 99.927. A Hafiz who has memorised the Qur’an, Zaid successfully balanced madrasa education with mainstream academic studies, scoring above 99% in both sessions of the examination. His achievement challenges common stereotypes surrounding religious education and highlights the potential for integrated learning approaches. He now aims to clear JEE Advanced and secure admission to an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
In Bihar, Sabreen Parveen emerged as a joint topper in the Class 10 board examinations, scoring 492 out of 500 (98.4%). A student from Vaishali district and the daughter of a tyre shop owner, Sabreen’s achievement exemplifies how determination and family support can overcome financial constraints. Aspiring to become a doctor, her success has inspired students in her community and beyond.
Equally inspiring is the story of Zainab Bilal from Srinagar, who scored 95% in her CBSE examinations despite being visually impaired. Relying on auditory learning, memory techniques, and assistive technology, she independently prepared for her exams. Her journey underscores the role of resilience and innovation in overcoming physical challenges, offering a powerful message about inclusivity in education.
From Jamia Millia Islamia schools, Md Fauzan topped JMI Class 10 2026 exams with 98.71%. Mohammad Ali and Mohammad Arham shared second place scoring 98.43%, from Syed Abid Hussain Senior Secondary School. Atiqua Zia and Ansari Zeenat Fatima secured third with 98.29%, representing Syed Abid Hussain Senior Secondary School and Jamia Girls Senior Secondary School.
Another noteworthy development is the increasing participation and success of Muslim women. In the UPSC 2025 results, 13 of the 53 successful Muslim candidates were women, indicating a positive shift toward gender inclusion. Notably, 38 students from Jamia Millia Islamia qualified UPSC this year thus setting example before all major universities. This trend also is mirrored in school-level examinations, where girls consistently outperform boys across communities. Initiatives encouraging girls’ education are also gaining momentum at the grassroots level.
In Rajasthan’s Sikar district, a unique initiative by philanthropist Adil Khan recognised the achievements of top-performing girls from government schools, irrespective of religion. Rewards included a car for one student and cash prizes of ₹1 lakh for others. The initiative not only celebrates academic excellence but also promotes awareness about the importance of girls’ education, particularly among underrepresented communities.
Experts attribute these encouraging trends to multiple factors. Increased awareness about the importance of education, greater parental support, and the expansion of coaching facilities into smaller towns have all contributed. Additionally, digital learning platforms and scholarship programs have made quality resources more accessible to students from economically weaker backgrounds.
Mentorship initiatives by non-governmental organisations and community groups have also played a critical role. By providing guidance for competitive exams such as UPSC, JEE, and NEET, these programmes have helped bridge long-standing gaps in access to information and preparation strategies.
However, challenges remain. Despite the visible progress, Muslim representation in elite institutions and services still lags behind proportional levels. Socio-economic barriers, disparities in school infrastructure, and limited awareness in certain regions continue to affect outcomes. Addressing these issues will require sustained policy efforts, community engagement, and investment in education at the grassroots level.
Educationists emphasise that the current momentum must be nurtured. “The improvement is real, but it needs continuity,” said one academic expert. “Access, affordability, and awareness are the three pillars that must be strengthened to ensure long-term change.”
The achievements of 2025-26 collectively tell a story of aspiration and gradual transformation. Whether it is a civil services aspirant securing a top rank, a student from a modest background topping a state board, or a visually impaired learner excelling against the odds, each success contributes to a larger narrative of empowerment.
As India continues to evolve as an educational hub, the rising performance of Muslim students reflects not only community progress but also the broader democratisation of opportunity. While the journey toward equitable representation is far from complete, the trajectory is unmistakably upward.
In classrooms, coaching centres, and homes across the country, a new generation of students is quietly rewriting expectations – one exam, one rank, and one success story at a time.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Focus / by Mohd Naushad Khan / May 08th, 2026
Katwa Town (Purba Bardhaman District) , WEST BENGAL :
Nilufa Yasmin
Kolkata :
Nilufa Yasmin has scored a perfect 100% in the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) held in June 2025. She has qualified for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Bengali.
The UGC NET is a national-level exam that determines eligibility for the award of the JRF, a scholarship awarded to postgraduate students to pursue research that leads to a PhD.
Her result is being celebrated as an achievement. It came after two previous unsuccessful attempts. She appeared for the exam along with more than 7,52,000 candidates. Her score of 100% has placed her right at the top.
Belonging to the state of West Bengal, she feels proud of her language and identity.
“I am proud to be a Bengali. I take even greater pride in my subject, which is Bengali language, and I am determined to hold onto it as I move forward in life,” she told TwoCircles.net, with a sense of pride.
Nilufa, 26, comes from Katwa town in Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal. Her academic performance from school through college has been excellent.
Lauding her success, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Congratulations to Nilufa Yasmin of Katwa in Purba Bardhaman for scoring 100 percentile and securing first position in India in UGC-NET June, 2025 in Bengali and to Rikta Chakraborty of Kolkata for securing second position in India in UGC-NET June, 2025 in Mass Communication and Journalism. Your achievements have made our State proud. Congratulations to your parents/ guardians and teachers too.”
Nilufa said this recognition from the chief minister is an honour and a reminder for her to strive even harder in the future.
She is currently pursuing her PhD on Sangeet O Sahityer Melbondhon from the Burdwan University. Her research explores the connection between music and literature.
She has an interest in music. She learnt Rabindra Sangeet during her school years and has taken part in many singing competitions. She has won prizes in various categories, including a gold medal in Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti and classical ‘bhaktigeeti’.
“I am inspired by legendary singers like Mohammed Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar,” she says.
She is a singer herself and has hosted a musical show titled ‘Eto Sur Eto Gaan’ on Doordarshan. She shares her singing performances on her You Tube Channel.
Her ambition is to become a professor in Bengali literature.
An avid reader who is inspired by her favourite authors such as Sarathchandra Chattopadhyay, Rabindranath Tagore, Procheta Gupta, among others, she aspires to be a professor of Bengali language and literature.
She has written 16 stories on themes such as women, social issues and romance. She hopes to publish them one day. She also wants to write a book.
Nilufa Yasmin with her parents
Nilufa says she owes her success to her sister and her parents who are in the field of education. She has a message for aspiring young girls and women: “Stand on your own feet first as financial freedom is the greatest form of freedom. Education brings dignity and teaches us to respect others. It is more important to be truly educated than just formally literate.”
She believes that food and language should not be used to create barriers.
Speaking about the alleged harassment and targeting of Bengali-speaking Muslims in different parts of the country, she says, “I am heartbroken by these incidents. One’s language, food and attire are personal choices and fundamental rights. Even though our country is independent, our mindset is yet to attain that freedom. Had we been free in thoughts, then no one would attack another for their language. This causes pain.”
source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News> India Politics> Indian Muslim> Lead Story> TCN Positive / by Nikhat Fatima, TwoCircles.net / August 10th, 2025
Dr. Syed Ahmed Khan, National President of Urdu Development Organisation, felicitating Shariya Fatima Sherwani on securing 100% marks in Urdu in the CBSE Class 10 exams
New Delhi:
Dr. Syed Ahmed Khan, National President of Urdu Development Organisation (UDO), personally visited the home of Shariya Fatima Sherwani, daughter of renowned journalist Sadiq Sherwani, to congratulate her and encourage her on achieving exceptional results in the CBSE Class 10 exams.
It is noteworthy that Shariya Fatima Sherwani secured 100% marks in Urdu, not only setting a new record but also serving as a strong rebuttal to those who hold negative views about the Urdu language.
Similarly, Omar Habib, son of Dr. Habibullah – CMO Unani at the Department of AYUSH, Government of Delhi, posted in Tihar Jail – achieved a remarkable 96% score.
In addition, Samiq Raza, son of senior journalist Syed Izharul Hasan, scored 88.4% in Class 12 at Delhi Air Force School.
The Urdu Development Organisation expressed happiness over the achievements of these students, extended its congratulations, and announced its decision to further encourage more successful and talented students from the community on World Urdu Day, on November 9.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / May 15th, 2025
In the bustling city of Bangalore, where the convergence of tradition and modernity creates a unique educational landscape, Dr Nafeesa Ahmed stands as a beacon of transformative leadership in the field of education. Dr Nafeesa has carved out a unique path for herself as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions while also carrying on her father, Dr Nissar Ahmed’s legacy of excellence and innovation.
Dr Nafeesa Ahmed, Director, Presidency Group of Institutions, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Dr Nafeesa’s educational journey is nothing short of impressive. A graduate of Mount Carmel College, Bangalore, she holds a Bachelor of Business Management (BBM) degree and pursued postgraduate studies in English literature at Bangalore University. Her commitment to education led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from IGNOU. Venturing beyond Indian shores, Dr Nafeesa enriched her perspective with a Master’s in International Management from Royal Holloway, University of London. This international exposure was instrumental in shaping her understanding of global education trends.
Her dedication to continuous learning took her to the prestigious Harvard School, where she honed her skills in management and leadership. Dr Nafeesa’s academic prowess is underscored by her diverse qualifications, including a BBM, a B.Ed., an MA in English Literature, and a Master’s in International Management. Her educational journey serves as an inspiration, reflecting the importance of a broad and holistic approach to learning.
Leadership at the Presidency Group of Institutions
Taking the reins as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions, Dr Nafeesa has led the K-12 chain of elite institutions with a commitment to “Equal Opportunity in Diversity.” Her vision is to provide high-quality, affordable education to students from diverse backgrounds. Focusing on aspects like course structure, pedagogical innovation, and outcome-based evaluation, she has fostered a conducive teaching and learning environment.
During the challenging times of the pandemic, Dr Nafeesa displayed exemplary leadership by seamlessly transitioning the education system from physical to virtual and eventually to a mixed classroom approach. Her leadership has been pivotal in ensuring that the team of highly-qualified educators delivers the finest education to students.
Accolades and Achievements: A Trailblazer in Education
Dr Nafeesa’s journey is adorned with prestigious awards and recognitions, attesting to her significant contributions to the field of education. Notably, she received the Economic Times Power Icon Award for “Exceptional Contribution in Education” in 2020 and was honoured as “The Education Icon of the Year 2021” by Education Today. Her recognition as a ‘Speaker’ at the “APAC 5th Global Education & Skill Conclave” and features in Women Entrepreneurs and Education World India showcase her as a thought leader in the education domain.
A crowning achievement in her illustrious career is the conferral of a Ph.D., Philosophiae Doctor Honoris Causa (HC) in Education Management by Ecole Superieure Robert De Sorbon (ESRDS), France, Europe. The recognition, awarded at The House of Lords, London, is a testament to Dr Nafeesa’s global impact and commitment to educational excellence.
As Dr Nafeesa Ahmed continues to shape the future of education, her journey stands as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of visionary leadership in the realm of academia. In the words of Dr Nafeesa, “My loved ones have been my rock through thick and thin. Having their back has been crucial to my success.” Indeed, her success radiates not only through personal accolades but also through the positive impact she has had on the lives of countless students and educators.
source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook / Home> Brand Studio / by The Outlook Bureau / March 08th, 2024
Taldi Village (South 24 Parganas District), WEST BENGAL :
Photo Credit: enewsroom
Kolkata:
Parvin Sultana, a young woman from West Bengal, has secured the top position in the All India Industrial Training Institute (ITI) examination 2024 in the Mechanic Diesel Trade, scoring an impressive 599 out of 600 marks.
Despite financial struggles, she achieved this remarkable feat without private coaching. Recognizing her exceptional performance, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee felicitated her, and she also received official recognition from Delhi.
Hailing from Taldi village in South 24 Parganas district, Parvin ranked first among female candidates nationwide. However, her academic success contrasts with her family’s financial difficulties. Her father, Taziur Rahman Sardar, works as a daily wage laborer in a fish market, striving to support their seven-member household.
Parvin’s educational journey has been one of determination. She completed her schooling at Taldi Surabala Sikshayatan for Girls’ School, securing 42% in her Madhyamik exams in 2017 and 76% in her Higher Secondary exams in 2019. In 2023, she earned a Political Science degree with 66% marks.
Despite financial hardships, Parvin remained focused on her studies, preparing for the ITI exam with the guidance of her college teachers instead of opting for private tutoring. “I couldn’t afford a tutor, but my teachers supported me. I want to prove that girls can excel in every field,” she said.
Lokman Mollah, a social worker in Canning, praised her perseverance, stating, “Many talented students in the Sundarbans go unnoticed due to financial constraints. Parvin’s success is proof that determination can overcome any obstacle.”
Parvin was honored at a public reception in Canning, organized by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and led by MLA Paresh Ram Das. Canning Panchayat Samiti President Uttam Das also recognized her achievements, while her mother, Rijia Bibi, voiced concerns about financial constraints. “She wants to study further, but we lack the resources,” she said.
Assuring assistance, MLA Paresh Ram Das stated, “Just as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee supports meritorious students, we, too, stand by them.”
While excelling in the ITI exam, Parvin’s ultimate goal is to serve society through the civil services. Inspired by her recent success, she has decided to prepare for competitive exams. “Initially, I wasn’t sure what to study for a secure job, but after my ITI results, many suggested civil services. Now, I am enrolling in a coaching center in Kolkata to prepare,” she said.
Parvin’s journey from a small village to national recognition serves as an inspiration, proving that resilience and hard work can overcome financial hardships.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / February 13th, 2025
Dr. Fatima Jalid, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, has been recognized in the newly published book She Is – 75 Women in Chemistry.
Published by Beyond Black in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), UK, the book was unveiled on February 6 at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Bhopal. It is the fourth edition in the She Is series and highlights the achievements of 75 Indian women making remarkable contributions in chemistry and related fields.
The book, authored by Elsa Marie D’Silva and Supreet K Singh, sheds light on the journeys of women from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities who have persevered against challenges to establish themselves in the field of chemistry. The authors emphasize that these women serve as beacons of inspiration, proving that determination and dedication can lead to excellence in scientific research.
Dr. Jalid’s research at NIT Srinagar focuses on developing chemical compounds and processes with applications in material science, environmental chemistry, and biotechnology. By integrating interdisciplinary approaches, she has advanced scientific knowledge in both theoretical and applied chemistry.
In a male-dominated field, Dr. Jalid has emerged as a role model for aspiring women in STEM. Her mentorship has created an inclusive academic environment at NIT Srinagar, encouraging more female students to pursue careers in scientific research. Actively involved in initiatives promoting women in science, she has organized workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to enhance female representation in STEM fields.
Believing that science should be accessible to all, Dr. Jalid advocates for inclusivity in research, ensuring that knowledge benefits society beyond socio-economic and gender barriers. Her published research papers in reputed international journals have received significant citations, further cementing her impact in the field.
The book She Is – 75 Women in Chemistry is available online for purchase at ₹1,645.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / February 16th, 2025
Prof. Rubi Anjum, Department of Tahaffuzi Wa Samaji Tib, Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University has been appointed as the Chairperson of the concerned department, for a period of three years, with effect from July 1, 2024.
Prof Anjum, engaged in teaching and research for over the last 16 years, has authored two books and published more than 70 research papers in journals of national and international repute. Besides this, she has attended more than 70 national and international conferences and seminars and presented papers on myriad topics.
She received an Award of Appreciation at a World Health Day event held at Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on April 3, 2016, for her role in creating awareness about diabetes.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / June 30th, 2024
Hijab-clad Alfiya Ansari allegedly faced discrimination at NG Acharya College, the first educational institution in the city that banned wearing headscarves and veils on the campus. Despite the decision reportedly forcing several Muslim women to drop out or discontinue attending classes, she remained dedicated to her education.
Her perseverance and determination led her to achieve the top rank in her class, serving as a powerful testament to her resilience and a strong rebuke to those who “discriminated” against her.
Alfiya’s achievements highlight her unwavering commitment to her goals, demonstrating that “bias” and “prejudice” cannot diminish true talent and hard work.
A Dream of Becoming a Doctor
Living with her parents and two siblings in Mumbai’s Govandi slum, Alfiya’s story is one of remarkable resilience and determination. Her father, a tailor earning Rs 20,000 per month, worked hard to support his family.
As the eldest sibling, Alfiya took her role seriously. She completed senior secondary school from a local English medium school, scoring an impressive 85% and chose to enroll in an aided college for further studies.
From a young age, she aspired to become a doctor. This ambition led her to choose the science stream in junior college, where she began preparing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET examination.
However, as she advanced to her second year, she decided to focus primarily on her board exams, dedicating much of her time to studying in the library to achieve her academic goals.
Despite facing health issues from eating outside food while spending long hours in the library, Alfiya’s family, particularly her mother, provided unwavering support. Her mother ensured she had home-cooked meals and timely medication, allowing her to maintain her focus.
Alfiya credits her success to her mother’s support, highlighting the crucial role her family played in her academic achievements.
‘Harassment’ at College
Initially cooperative, the staff at Acharya College allegedly changed their attitude drastically once the hijab issue arose. Teachers purportedly began harassing Muslim girls, making them stand outside during lectures and using various other methods.
Alfiya was mentally disturbed for many days. Fifteen-twenty girls, she alleged, stopped attending college.
However, she could not easily give up on her dream of becoming a doctor. With her parents unable to afford another college, she continued at Acharya, removing her hijab outside but still wearing a dupatta.
“This is how I struggled,” she told TwoCircles.net.
Maintaining Focus Amidst Adversity
Alfiya remained focused on her goals despite the challenges. “Life brings many issues, sometimes in the form of the hijab and sometimes due to narrow-minded views about girls,” she said, adding, “When we are focused, problems do not seem as overwhelming.”
She stayed focused on her aim and plans to continue facing challenges head-on without stepping back from her goals.
A Message to Girls
Alfiya has a powerful message for girls: “If we want to change our current situation, education is the most important part. Achieve it, but always remember the importance of both academic and religious knowledge. Only then can you become a better role model in this society. Your identity should be defined by your character, which for a girl is always defined by her modesty. Be whatever you want to be, but stay within the bounds of modesty.”
Advice for Youth
To the youth, Alfiya advises, “You are your own saviours, and your own adversaries. Keep yourself engaged in productive activities, or else negative influences will keep you busy with useless and immoral activities. Use your mobile phones positively but within a specific time limit. Learn skills to keep pace with the present situation.”
Family’s Joy and Support
After the results, Alfiya’s family was overjoyed. “Before 12th grade, I did not receive much financial support from anyone; but after 12th grade, I received immense support from an elder sister, whom I consider an angel. She has been a great source of motivation for me,” she said, though she could not mention her name due to her sister’s request for anonymity.
source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Careers / by K K Ahmed, TwoCircles.net / June 10th, 2024
